DigitalHealth.London accelerator company Ampersand Health has launched self-care courses to help people with Crohn’s or Colitis improve their health and quality of life.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people with a host of long term conditions are being told to stay away from hospitals, except when in the greatest need. Ampersand Health has launched a mobile application developed to help some of the most at-risk improve their self-care.
My IBD Care’s Lifestyle and Wellbeing courses can be used long-term to help people have more control over their lives with Crohn’s or Colitis. Engaging with these courses could help in prolonging patient’s periods of remission, as well as keeping flare-ups at bay.
This lifestyle and wellbeing support has been sought-after by patients for some time. The 2017 Crohn's & Colitis UK’s Quality of Life survey reported that 47% of those with Crohn's or Colitis say their condition impacts their mental health. Even for those in remission, pain and fatigue are consistently reported, which can have negative knock-on effects for an individual’s sleep and exercise habits.
Dr Gareth Parkes, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Bart’s Health and co-founder at Ampersand, said: “The fact that I can now direct my patients to My IBD Care to help them maintain their health and wellbeing, is very powerful. Importantly, the courses are evidence-based and led by credible experts, and patients benefit from a library of educational content from the national charity as well as a host of tracking and reminder options.”
During these unusual times, My IBD Care helps healthcare systems focus on short term threats, by helping patients address the psychological burden of isolation whilst supporting them to self-manage. Hospitals can also offer the app to patients, enabling remote monitoring and helping the at-risk to stay out of hospital safely.
Ana Ibarra, IBD nurse specialist at The Royal London said: “This app transforms the support available for people living with IBD, giving them access to so much guidance on lifestyle and psychological topics that we often don’t have time to discuss in clinic. It couldn’t come at a better time for the long-term wellbeing of my patients.”
